The NCMC men's basketball squad took a tough home loss in front of a spirited home crowd on Tuesday against the #11 ranked Southwestern Community College Spartans from Creston, IA.  The final score of 97-86 showed early-season improvement for the squad compared to the 32 point loss the team suffered against the same opponent on the road less than a week prior.

"We took a tough loss to a very good Southwestern team but I believe we got better because of it. Our guys played hard the entire game. We are still having too many self-inflicted, costly mistakes on offense and mental lapses on defense. Once we get those cut down further and continue to play as hard as we do I think good things are going to happen," remarked Coach Esry on his team's play.

The Pirates had 6 players score in double digits for a balanced attack.  Dee Scruggs 15 points led the way while Demetrius Houston totaled 14 points.  MJ Johnson and Jalen Gant each scored 12 while Major Finley and Teyontae Jenkins chipped in 11 points apiece.

The men are back in action at home on Monday against the Central Methodist University JV.  Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30pm.